Ikelite Underwater Housing for Sony Cyber-shot RX100 Mark I, RX100 Mark II Digital Cameras

A full featured and durable underwater housing for Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX100 and DSC-RX100 Mark II digital cameras. Suitable for scuba, snorkel, surf, pool, and any application in or around the water.

The Sony RX100 series cameras are great choices for underwater use because they pack advanced features and high resolution into a compact camera body. These earlier Mark I and Mark II models continue to be popular because they are commonly available at a more affordable price than the newer cameras in the series. The 28-100mm zoom range is ideally suited for underwater photography, especially when combined with the huge 20MP 1" BSI-CMOS sensor.

Ergonomics and handling

This compact and lightweight housing include all of Ikelite's latest features and improvements. The housing allows you to operate your Sony Cyber-shot camera up to depths of 200 feet (60m). It is designed and built in the USA by experienced divers with a commitment to providing top quality and value.

Large, easy-to-reach controls are provided for all camera functions. Soft-touch knobs are easy to grip with or without gloves on and provide quick access to important controls including front and rear dials and the mode control. Rear controls are marked with an easy-to-see laser engraved symbols which never fade or fall off.

A trigger-type shutter lever control is designed for optimal sensitivity and a natural motion when shooting underwater. The standard control hugs the side of the housing for comfortable use when hand holding. The shutter trigger may be easily extended using the optional Shutter Trigger Extension # 4077.93 for more comfortable reach when using a handle grip.

The front-loading camera mounting system makes installation and removal a breeze. The camera mounting plate allows ready access to the battery and memory card and features a standard 1/4-20 mounting point for attachment to a tripod topside.

Wide angle and macro close-up

Ikelite's 3" diameter ports feature a 67mm thread on the front for the easy attachment of external wide angle and macro wet lenses. Wide angle lenses make objects appear smaller so that you can fit more into your frame underwater. Macro close-up lenses make small objects appear larger so that tiny creatures will fill your frame.

The WD-3 Wide Angle Dome provides a mid-range angle of view with no vignetting (dark shadows in the corners of the image).

The W-30 Wide Angle Lens, INON UWL-H100, and other 67mm threaded wide angle lenses provide a wider maximum angle of view. Because these are separated from the camera's lens by glass, air, and water, some vignetting and edge distortion will be present. These effects can be reduced or eliminated by using a smaller aperture, zooming in slightly, and/or cropping in post-production.

External macro lenses with 67mm threads from INON, Epoque, and other manufacturers can be attached directly to the front of the housing's port.

Accessory mounting

Two 1/4-20 threaded mounting points are included on the bottom of the housing for the attachment of a tray and handle system. Handles provide improved ergonomics underwater and are the foundation for your lighting mounts.

Light is absorbed as it travels through even short distances underwater, making colors appear dull or monochromatic. To preserve the natural colors of your subject, it's important to stay within arm's reach—no more than 3-4 feet (1m) away.

There is a simple rule that brighter is better underwater. A high-quality lighting system can produce magazine-quality results with almost any compact camera system.

Color filters

Enhanced color correction and clarity can be achieved by adding a color filter or external light. The lens port of the housing accepts Ikelite's 3" diameter color filters, which are available in two formulas: Tropical Blue Water # 6441.41 and Green Water # 6441.81. A color filter reduces the amount of light that reaches the camera's sensor, so they are most effective in sunny conditions up to about 45 feet (15m). The absolute maximum effectiveness is 80 feet (24m) in ideal conditions of full sun and visibility of 100+ feet (30+m).

Ikelite also offers a Yellow Barrier Filter # 6441.11 for shooting fluorescence photography. Read more about fluorescence here...

Flash and constant on lights

A flash or constant on light is necessary for close-up, night dives, and deep depths. An external light also brings out more colors in sunny conditions. External lights are typically not used in conjunction with color filters, as the combination will result in tones that are too red or too purple.

The location of the camera's flash in relation to the lens makes it unusable for lighting your subject underwater. However, the camera's flash may be used to trigger an external strobe. Two ports are provided for the connection of up to two fiber optically triggered underwater strobes.

Alternatively, a bright constant-on video light can be used. A constant-on light is not as bright as a strobe flash. Constant-on lights do provide added versatility because they can be used for focus assist and for improved colors when shooting video.

Vacuum testing

A spare 1/2-20 threaded Accessory Port on the side of the housing is the perfect location for the installation of an optional vacuum valve. The Vacuum Kit # 47012 allows you to pull a vacuum on the housing to simulate pressure at depth and check for leaks prior to entering the water.

Durability and corrosion free performance

Ikelite's ABS-PC blend provides strength and corrosion free performance year after year with minimal maintenance. The specially formulated color deflects the sun to keep your camera running cooler, longer. Compared to black or clear housings, the light gray color provides superior contrast for an enhanced view of the camera, LCD screen, and O-ring seal.

The unique rear seal design prevents accidental twisting or stretching of the o-ring for simple and confident assembly. Ikelite has eliminated the need for an o-ring groove or channel which can trap sand, dirt, or debris. Two double-passivated stainless steel locking lid snaps are simple to use and virtually unbreakable. The clear back allows you to see the o-ring form a solid, watertight seal as it closes.

Ikelite products are designed, built and tested in the USA. Ikelite uses locally sourced, top-grade materials. Ikelite's housings are built by hand and individually tested for fit and function. Every unit is water pressure tested to 200 feet (60m). Iklite backs their products with over 50 years of experience and the best reputation for service within the dive industry.

Compatibility

Differences in lens and control placement prevent cameras other than the Sony Cyber-shot RX100 or RX100 II from being used in this housing. Newer RX100 III, RX100 IV, and RX100 IV cameras are not compatible with this housing. Ikelite is not aware of any other camera models which may be used in or adapted to this particular housing.

In the Box

• Housing
• O-Ring # 0109 (installed)
• Port cover # 0200 (installed)
• Camera mount plate for RX100 II (installed)
• Camera mount plate for RX100
• Silicone lubricant # 0184.1
• 1 year limited warranty

Optional Accessories

• Spare O-Ring Seal # 0109
• WD-3 Wide Angle Dome # 6430.3
• UR/PRO Color Filter for Tropical Blue Water # 6441.41
• UR/PRO Color Filter for Green Water # 6441.81
• Yellow Fluorescence Filter # 6441.11
• Action Tray with Left-Hand Handle # 2605.04
• Action Tray Extension with Right Handle # 2605.05
• Shutter Trigger Extension # 4077.93
• Vacuum Kit for 1/2" Accessory Port # 47012
• Fiber Optic Cord # 4501

Specifications

• 200 ft (60m) depth rating
• Controls for all camera functions
• Slightly negative buoyancy in fresh water
• 1/4-20 thread tray mounting with 3" (76mm) spacing
• 2.4 lb (1088 g)
• 6.8 x 5 x 5.3" (173 x 127 x 135 mm)
• 3" diameter glass lens port with 67mm threads